The Bones of Osteoporosis after Weight Loss Surgery

By Tina Shelton, MSN RN CBN

 

Bariatric surgery has assisted you in making many positive changes. Negative changes may occur if a patient is not following the recommendations of their bariatric program. An example of this is osteoporosis due to failure to comply with vitamin and mineral guidelines.

 

But you already knew that didn’t you? But did you know that osteoporosis is a thinning of the bones that causes bones to become porous and fragile? Did you know that because osteoporosis is silent many people are unaware that they are experiencing bone loss and by the time that they become aware of the disease it may be in its later stages and have caused serious damage?

 

Here are the Facts:

- Fractures are the most common result of osteoporosis.

- Osteoporosis is not a ‘woman only’ disease but affects men too.

- In the early stages of bone loss, you usually experience no pain or other symptoms.

 

Take Steps to Prevent Oosteoporosis:

- Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.

- Include supplemental calcium and vitamin D.

- Get guidance on the amounts and type from your bariatric program.

- Engage in weight-bearing exercise.

- Adopt a healthy lifestyle.

- If prescribed -take medication to improve bone density.

 

Another important step to help preserve bone density is to maintain your follow up visits with your bariatric program where they can also address your bone health. Your program is here to support you and there are no bones about it!